I was first introduced to mailing lists when I subscribed to the DIYbio google group. I was expecting it to just be like a forum where I would occasionally visit the site when I wanted to read or post about some DIYbio stuff. Yet to my very thank ful surprise when I woke up the next day, I opened my inbox to a flood of DIYbio conversations. Ranging from talk of using a swiffer wetjet as a component for a DNA synthesizer to someone asking for (and community members providing)an amplification circuit for use in their diy thermocycler.

The benefit of being surrounded by people with your same (or possibly even greater) level of passion for your field of interest can not be underestimated. Yet its not always possible to be in the same room as people ,especially when they live on the other side of the globe. So being able to communicate openly and at your own pace instantly with thousands of passionate and knowledgeable people is why I think Mailing Lists are the most import tool for any Scientist.